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Recently, LTF Media had the privilege of interviewing Julie Kellis, the director of the FAHS. During our conversation, she shared a thought-provoking sentiment: “We have a little bit of concern of what’s coming in the future.”
But what did Julie mean by this statement?
The FAHS, or Franklin Area Historical Society, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing the rich history of Franklin and Franklin Township, Ohio. The organization relies on a devoted team of board members and volunteers who give their time and energy to keep the history of Franklin alive through storytelling and the preservation of artifacts.
However, Julie’s concern for the future stems from a significant challenge: many of the board members and key volunteers are aging. As they grow older, there may be an uncertainty about whether these individuals will be able to continue their important work at the FAHS, sparking concern about the sustainability of the organization’s mission in the years to come.
In addition to this challenge, the FAHS is struggling to attract younger generations to join their cause. Despite their best efforts-finding passionate, dedicated individuals who are willing to step in and carry the torch of preserving Franklin’s history has proven difficult.
This raises an important question: What will happen to our history if there aren’t enough people to ensure the continuity of the FAHS’s vital work? The preservation of historical narratives and artifacts is crucial not only for honoring the past but also for educating future generations about the unique legacy of their hometown.
It’s clear that without a new generation of committed individuals to take up the mantle, there could be significant gaps in the preservation of Franklin’s heritage. This situation underscores the importance of nurturing interest in local history, encouraging volunteer work, and finding ways to engage younger people who can contribute to the long-term success of organization.
Preserving Franklin’s history is not just about keeping old stories and objects safe—it’s about ensuring that the community’s past continues to be a living, breathing part of it’s future. Without new interest, the invaluable work of organizations like the FAHS may be at risk of fading, and with it, the unique history of Franklin itself.
